New Victorian Rental Reforms You Need to Know.
New Victorian Rental Reforms You Need to Know.
Staying informed ensures your investment remains compliant, protecting you from large fines and keeping your renters safe in the property.
Victoria’s latest round of residential tenancy reforms is here, with several new requirements already confirmed by Consumer Affairs Victoria, and the REIV.
Below, we’ve outlined what’s changing — and when — so you can plan ahead with confidence.
Unsure about what these changes mean for you?
Contact your property manager directly or the Compton Green team.
03 9397 1600
Notices to Vacate – Understanding the Rules & Timeframes
Clear communication and correct procedures are essential when ending a tenancy. Below is a quick reference for Notice to Vacate timelines under the Residential Tenancies Act.
Starting 25th November, 2025, significant changes to rental laws in Victoria will impact how rental providers can issue a Notice to Vacate.
Key Changes to Notices to Vacate
The legislation will abolish the End of Fixed Term Notice to Vacate for both agreements of less than five years and agreements of more than five years. If the Notice to Vacate is issued before the 25th November 2025, it will remain in force after the new legislation is in effect.
The current Notice to Vacate period is 60 days; this will be increased to 90 days’ notice on the 25th of November 2025.
Rental providers can only issue a Notice to Vacate for the following reasons and must provide relevant documentation when issuing -
• The Rental provider or a close family member intends to move in. – Statutory Declaration Required
• Plans for major renovations requiring the renter to vacate – Proof of works contract or demolition contract
• The property is being sold with vacant possession or with tenancy continuing – Contract of Sale
• The renter has breached the rental agreement terms – evidence of breach
Remember:
All notices must be in writing, specify the reason, and be served appropriately (in person, registered post, or electronic method with consent). Incomplete or incorrect notices can be challenged and deemed invalid; this can affect settlement dates and sales contracts.
Significant changes to rental bidding and rent acceptance practices are set to take effect in Victoria starting November 25, 2025. These reforms aim to enhance fairness and transparency in the rental market for both renters and rental providers.
What’s Changing on 25th November 2025?
Complete Ban on Rental Bidding
A residential rental provider or the provider's agent must not accept an unsolicited or otherwise uninvited offer of rent that is higher than the advertised amount for the rented premises.
Limit on Rent in Advance
A residential rental provider or the provider's agent must not accept an unsolicited or uninvited offer to pay rent more than one month in advance under a residential rental agreement.
Rent Increases
The required notice period for a Notice of rent increase is to increase from the current 60 days to 90 days.
Also, currently, section 45(4)(b) requires CAV & VCAT to consider the matters listed in section 47(3) when determining if a rent increase is excessive. The regulations are not yet available; however, it is expected that one of the prescribed matters will be whether the amount is excessive and consider the renters' circumstances.
A residential rental provider or the provider's agent must not advertise a property for rent that does not meet Minimum Standards.
Both renters and rental providers should familiarise themselves with these changes to ensure a smooth transition and compliance with the new laws.
What’s Changing on 1st December 2025?
Blind Cord Safety – New Minimum Standard
From 1 December 2025, all Victorian residential rental properties must comply with new blind and curtain cord safety standards.
This means:
• All internal corded window coverings must be secured or tensioned so cords cannot form a loose hanging loop.
• Applies to all blinds and curtains, no matter when installed.
• Aimed at preventing child strangulation hazards in homes.
Action for rental providers:
✔ Arrange for cleats or cord guides to be installed at least 1.6m above the floor.
✔ Complete a blind-cord compliance check before leasing or renewing any tenancy.
✔ Keep a record of work completed — this may be requested during inspections.
Renter tip:
If you notice loose or hanging cords, let your property manager know immediately. Safety upgrades are considered an urgent repair for our property management team to action.
How can Compton Green help?
Our property management team is across every compliance deadline and detail.
We can assist you by:
• Conducting blind-cord and safety audits before 2025 deadlines.
• Preparing energy-efficiency upgrade plans before the 2027 rollout of further minimum standard items.
• Issuing compliant Notices to Vacate and maintaining transparent communication with renters.
At Compton Green, we take pride in ensuring both renters and residential rental providers are protected, informed and supported through every change in legislation.
Let’s Stay Ahead
If you’d like a personalised compliance health check on your property or a briefing on how these updates impact your portfolio, get in touch with our team today.
Compliance & Peace of Mind: At Compton Green, we will ensure your property meets minimum standards and is fully compliant
Ethical, Transparent Management: Our team operates with integrity, prioritising fair, ethical practices for both rental providers and renters.
Proactive Oversight: We stay on top of legislative changes, safety requirements, and property maintenance, so your investment is always secure, attractive to renters, and performing at its best.
Coming in 2027.
Minimum Standards & Energy Efficiency Upgrades.
More information from Compton Green Coming Soon.
Useful Links:
Checklist: Rental Properties Minimum Standards
New and Upcoming Minimum Standards
Disclaimer:
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Rental providers and renters should seek independent advice from a qualified legal or financial advisor regarding their specific circumstances.